September 2025.
Local government in areas with two-tier systems, such as Lancashire, is to be reorganised by creating new unitary authorities (UAs) that deliver all local services. At present, Lancashire County Council provides services such as social care, education, highways, and libraries, while district and borough councils (see map below) deliver services including waste collection, planning, housing, and leisure.
Blackpool, and Blackburn with Darwen, already have UAs, so at present they are independent of Lancashire County Council. However, they are being included in the reorganisation because central government wants to see bigger UAs. They, and all the other councils in Lancashire, are working collaboratively to develop proposals for new unitary arrangements, with options ranging from between two and five new UAs. Click here to see all the options that are being considered.
The proposals must be submitted to Government by 28 November 2025 and must demonstrate:
- Stronger local leadership
- Improved service delivery and outcomes
- Financial sustainability and value for money
- Economic growth and prosperity
- Community identity and effective local partnerships
The councils are currently consulting the public, and parish and town councils, for their views, and you can submit your comments by completing an online survey.
Click here to start